Emergency Response to Stranded Sailboat
On Monday evening, the Canary Islands Emergency and Security Coordination Center (CECOES 1-1-2) alerted the Lanzarote Emergency NGO (Emerlan) about a distressed sailboat near Papagayo Beach in Yaiza, southern Lanzarote. Reports indicated crew members were in the water, prompting an immediate maritime and land-based response.
Rapid Mobilization of Rescue Teams
The GES-EMERLAN rescue vessel set sail immediately, while a rapid response vehicle headed to the scene by land. Coordination was established with Yaiza Local Police and Maritime Rescue to ensure an efficient operation. Shortly after, Emerlan confirmed the crew had exited the water unharmed and required no medical assistance.
Successful Recovery and Towing Operation
The sailboat’s captain chose to remain onboard but handed over his dog to rescuers for safekeeping. When the Salvamar Acrux arrived, teams worked together to secure a towline. The captain assisted in fastening the line, and after cutting the anchor, the sailboat was freed and towed to Marina Rubicón.
Final Efforts to Prevent Sinking
As the vessel approached port, a leak was detected. Emerlan and Maritime Rescue deployed pumps to prevent sinking before moving the sailboat to a beaching area for repairs. The operation concluded at 00:25 after over four hours of coordinated efforts between all emergency services involved.
